Computer Aided Language Learning General Issues The author believes that computer based technologies have the potential to contribute significantly to second and foreign language learning. However, having conducted some fairly elementary research in 1996 there were clearly a number of issues that needed to be addressed within many teaching institutions. In response to a survey one of the participants addressing a question related to future technology planning, stated that, "language labs are being phased out. Single work stations are the rage". The frequency of statements like this is and the lack of clear comparative evidence of significant learning enhancement from computers (or language laboratories) is what actually prompted the research in the first place. Basically, the objective was to obtain a clearer perspective of the general development of CALL in Australian Institutions. A few interesting (to the author) things that emerged from the study were that:
During the various stages of the qualitative research it became increasingly clear that many teachers were creating CALL materials in relative isolation. This highlighted the importance of establishing collegial, institutional, and cross-institutional support systems to assist with the successful implementation of new technologies such as CALL. Perhaps through increased joint-institutional participation, we may be able to pool resources and expertise, and better address the major constraint - time. It appears unlikely that with ever decreasing budgets that more time will become available for materials development in the near future. Has the situation really changed in 10 years? I would appreciate your comments on these issues. Phillip Rekdale |